Shera Series - Chess Bazaar

Hi all, 

Well... call me a hypocrite or even silly (or harsher) .... I have taken a chance in this global market of questionable quality... I decided to purchase another set of pieces, even though I have been saying that I am going to pause. Hmmm... 

While all manufacturers seem to have had their problems to date - including Chess Bazaar and others - I wanted this set - the Shera Series - V 2.0 in rosewood. I took the plunge. 

I have only ever purchases two sets and those, in late 2020, prior to what may be called the Queen's Gambit wave. These two sets I purchased historically were the 2016 Bridle Knight (in my opinion one of the better/best of Bridle Knight variants) and the GM Blitz (with a lovely one piece knight).

Both sets were purchased from Chess Bazaar. To date, Chess Bazaar have done nothing wrong by me - in fact I love my two sets - so I am happy to give Chess Bazaar another chance - even in this market of questionable quality. 

This time I have chosen the Shera series because I love the knight with it's strong face and nostrils (Yeah what? I am buying chess pieces on a photo of nostrils!!) and with its mane that is swept to one side (thus having a different look depending on which way the knight is facing). I also like that the mane - while intricately designed - is not over the top - at least in my opinion.

I also like the fact that the king has a tall and different look to the pieces I currently have and the slender curves of the bishop, queen and king - perhaps the rook is too narrow for some ... but I do like the turret.

So... fingers crossed. I really hope the quality is as promised. It was on 'clearance' but I have been promised that it is not damaged or imperfect stock. I really hope there are no cracks (which, if so, will be replaced) and that the finish is beautiful like the pieces of the two previous sets. I look forward to beautiful pieces in rosewood too - different to the ebony I currently own. 

In truth, I am a little worried and perhaps selfishly, I hope this public post will also help if the quality is questionable - but hopefully - the pieces are as advertised. Luxuriously wonderful. We'll all see. 

I placed the order about 30 minutes ago - so I'll tell the story through this post and hopefully - it's a good story ... or you can all laugh at my foolishness to take a risk in a market where quality is up and down. Let's see.

Such a nice feeling just ordering a new toy!

I really like that set and was considering it,but I have to stick with the C.B. Ceska Klubovka set,when I feel confident enough to hit the buy button...and...see a better discount.

Enjoy that gem!

Hey Magic,
I hope my experience is positive and if so - it helps you with your decision on your set. That set that you have your eyes on is a beauty - and as noted in another thread - I’m sure I’ll be envious if you do end up buying it. 👍

Nothing to be envious of at all.You have superb taste and I really doubt there will be any issues.Waiting is the best part.

Good luck with your purchase. I hope all turns out well for you.

I looked up the set to check out the design because I don't have them all memorized . Very handsome! I like it. 

Nice! I thought I was experiencing deja vu. That's similar to the infamous chipped Varese set from Globe Creations recently purchased by @tskeldon.

Hi all, 

Thank you for your good wishes. I do hope my order turns out well. 

My apologies - I should have put a link in the original post. Here 'tis: Shera Series - Chess Bazaar.

I have ordered the bud rose (lacquered). Indeed, after initially placing an order for a buff finish, I received a polite and prompt response from Mayank at Chess Bazaar noting that the only bud rose wood set left in stock was lacquered and would I accept a lacquered set with no extra charge. I accepted that offer. I could have also chosen ebony but I have two ebony sets and really wanted a rose wood set.

@Pawnerai - yes - after your comment, I just had a look and the Shera set does look similar to the set you mentioned from Globe - @tskeldon. From the photos I am looking at - the Shera has a different incline on the knight's head, the bishop's mitre is perhaps different and I think the manner in which the pieces resolve at the base is different too. The Shera set may be slightly stockier (albeit photos are deceiving and I couldn't easily find specific dimensions on the Varese). They are very similar.

I await with nervous anticipation - this addiction called chess is quite something! I am loving playing and look forward to using this new set upon arrival. 

 

Btw,I hope the lockdown in India does not have a negative  effect on the delivery, or quality of build.They appear to be having a second wave and some serious issues.....Hope this all plays out well,since I have my eye on a nice C.B. set and am awaiting how things turn out.

Sheesh! These are really crazy times.

Yep. Delhi lockdown has been extended up to 5th May and could extend further. Delhi and Mumbai is where we are getting hit hard the most.

Not sure about international shipments, but domestic couriers are been asked to only ship essentials. Whatever the developments, I am sure Chessbazaar will keep their clients updated.

I had ordered their plastic set on 12 April and got it on 20th, but that was before the hard lockdown. Very quick shipping by CB, but it could get difficult if situation worsens. 

Hi Magic and @rishi9 ,

Yes, the pandemic situation in parts of India is awful and the devastating toll on human lives and livelihoods is so far more important than any chess set.

This thread is so inconsequential in life’s bigger scheme.

My thoughts are with everyone, everywhere that is affected. Coming from Melbourne, Australia - I feel fortunate to be living here - even though we had significant and long term lockdowns last year.

On the lacquered Shera set in rosewood order - the Chess Bazaar team continue to be helpful, responsive and provide updates - and at this stage - I believe the set will be shipped shortly.

Hey Powder.....I hope I did not come off as trying to scare you.I definitely think your set will be superb!

My reason for mentioning the situation was about concern for virtually everyone involved.From members here,who have ordered,or about to order from India(I'm one of them) and out of real concern and downright fear!......My hopes are that the small people,who are contracted by the likes of the C.B.'s and H,O.S.'s etc, are able to work and make a living.

These times are tough.

I,myself,had Covid...It is not fun!

Here’s an update.

Firstly - my thoughts are with everyone, everywhere continuing to battle the ravages of the pandemic and specifically regarding this thread - the people of India and Chess Bazaar team in particular. The situation is awful based on the media I am reading and from work colleagues who have friends and family in India.

Mayank, Vik and the Chess Bazaar team provide regular updates. I understand that my pieces have been inspected and are ready for shipment but shipment processing is taking time due to staff shortages and other processing issues. I believe they - the Chess Bazaar team - are doing what they can but things are just taking more time right now.

That said, I am somewhat anxious and worried - as payment has been processed and as with my other sets - this is a substantive payment for me. I could request a refund but I don’t think we are at that stage ... delays are understandable and it is right (in my mind) to be patient and understanding at this time.

As a reflection - I blame no one but me for my worries - I placed the order after making a judgement on the risks - if anything I am frustrated at my own eagerness to buy myself a present at such times! I could have waited!!

Alas, I’ll remain optimistic and hope it all works out. And again, this is a chess set ... when life and death is literally at stake! Indeed, in Australia our government has now closed our borders (to passenger flights) and not even families can be repatriated home. Tough time’s indeed.

Anyway ... as inconsequential as chess sets are right now ... I thought it appropriate to provide an update on this thread and I’ll let you know how things proceed - if and when they do.

I feel for everyone around the world. Hopefully things will turn out well sooner rather than later.

As for your situation with CB, I also hope all goes well. It seems of late the suppliers are at least corresponding with customers and replacing pieces. I don't see them as making any excuses and are doing the best they can in these difficult times.

I don't think there is any need to blame yourself either. We all love chess equipment right or wrong. I think we can all understand your eagerness to buy what you want. Truth be told if the HoS Cooke Luxury set was available I would be hard pressed not to order it despite all of the reports that indicate I should not. I am somewhat glad it isn't available or I might be sitting in your shoes as well.

Hi @MCH818,

Yeah - thanks for your thoughts and reply. I too see a positive trend (via this forum) of suppliers trying hard in difficult circumstances and again, the Chess Bazaar team are constantly updating me and they’ve always been that way with me. All good. Doesn’t stop me being nervous ... it’s in my makeup 🥴... and I think it is good that we are providing objective feedback and updates so we all know what’s going on. I reckon if I ever get to India, which I would like to do, I wouldn’t mind sharing a beer with the team and discuss stories of the massive increase in demand in a time of global pandemic ... there’s another movie or miniseries there somewhere! 😏

BUT....Just think how happy you'll be when you "do" get the set and it winds up being perfect!

My prediction....Don't forget it.-

I agree with @magictwanger. Just focus on the fact that you'll be getting exactly what you want.

Hi all,

I’m very excited to note that I have received an email that my order has now been shipped!! You beauty!

My prior two sets were via DHL - this set is via Federal Express (FedEx) - it matters not to me who delivers it - I wait with bated breath!

As an aside, the time from my order to shipping is about one week longer than my prior two sets -but I think this is wholly understandable in the current environment- indeed ... probably quicker than I had set my expectations given the current Pandemic situation.

Anyway - hopefully the next update is when I am opening boxes to what I really hope is a high quality chess set. Fingers are crossed.

😊

I can't wait to see some photos!

Once you get the set and it comes in as desired... Perfect,as I hope and predict,me'thinks Chessbazaar deserves a glowing review,since all hell has broken out there.It can't be an easy time for businesses to operate.